After a 118 point, conference-leading season, the Yowlers continue to adapt well to the new rule changes by making it deep into the playoffs. A tough game 7 loss in the conference championship sent the Yowlers back home and sends four players off into the sunset. The team suffers some particularly heavy losses this season, providing a big challenge to GM yogsloth as he attempts to re-stock the team at several key positions.

D Kip Fulton GP G A PTS

Regular Season 642 112 140 252

Playoffs 194 39 54 93

An original Yowler with a long odyssey chronicled earlier in these pages, Kip Fulton finally hangs up the skates after an astonishingly lengthy career for a man never desginated as a franchise player. Well over 800 games played (regular season and playoffs) and nearly 350 points distinguish his career as one of the elite and under-appreciated rearguards in MLD history. Originally traded to Winnipeg for a chance to finish his career with a winner when the Yowlers were struggling, he was used sparingly and managed to get traded back to Yorba Linda after winning his third MLD cup with the Jets. Beyond his amazing point totals, however, Fulton was primarly known as a defensive juggernaut, finishing with a staggering +314 rating overall (+245 regular season, +69 playoffs). He wore #2 throughout his Yowlers career. He will be dearly missed by the franchise and the fans, and will go to work immediately as an assistant coach for the Yowlers' farm team, the Anaheim Hills Anacondas.

C Sheldon Skytt GP G A PTS

Regular Season 492 86 123 209

Playoffs 50 12 11 23

A versatile two-way center, Skytt retires after playing every game for six straight seasons. He burst onto the Yowlers, leading the team with 21 goals during his rookie season in year twelve. Although he never again matched that total, his game became more and more well-rounded, and saw him centering the Yowler's top line for his final three seasons. An expert playmaker, checker, and faceoff winner, he demonstrated his value to the team with over 200 points and a +70 rating, along with a career 58% success rate in the faceoff circle. A coach's favorite, Skytt was used in all situations, retiring as one of the team's all-time PP goal leaders with eleven, and also tying the franchise record for SH goals in a season with 3 during season 16. He was the recipient of the team's "Best Newcomer" award (season 12), "Unsung Hero" award (season 15), and "Best Defensive Forward" award (season 17). He wore #7 throughout his career. He plans to continue his pro career in Europe.

C Gerard Takko GP G A PTS

Regular Season 504 64 104 168

Playoffs 48 2 5 7

A mid-season aquisition in year fourteen, Takko was brought in to provide some sorely-needed offense. The team dealt away competent D-man Lex Rheume for Takko and the 18-goal, 36-point season he had on his resumé with the hope that he could inject some goals into the Yowlers' second line. Unfortunately, he was never really able to deliver on that promise, scoring only 4 goals his first full season and 29 over three full seasons - two of which came after the rule changes designed to boost offense. His struggles magnified in the playoffs with a miserable two goals in 48 games. He did eventually adapt to the Yowlers' traditional defensive-minded role the team's centers are required to take, but never really settled in the way the team had hoped. He wore #13 during his stay with the Yowlers.

G Branislav Hanhimaki GP W L T SO Save%

Regular Season 327 162 120 41 35 91.75

Playoffs 25 10 14 N/A 1 90.07

Always a huge enigma for the Yowlers, fans bid adieu to the third goaltender in franchise history, the much-celebrated (and at times, equally reviled) Hanhimaki. Branislav began his MLD career in training behind franchise heroes Anton Boucher and Mal Pokela, turning heads by posting shutouts in his first two MLD starts. Fans were incredibly excited as the young Finnish/Slovak player posted a 1.25 GAA his first partial season. With Boucher retiring, the team was certain its next franchise rock of a 'tender had arrived. Unfortunately, Hanhimaki struggled greatly for years afterwards. He assumed the mantle of the #1 goaltender in season 8, but lost it again by season 12 after years of mediocre play.

Then came the start of season 13, which saw a tremendous wildfire consume the Eastern edge of Yorba Linda, threatening the Yowlers' facility and destroying dozens of structures, including an apartment complex where some of the players lived. Hanhimaki was badly burned on one hand while evacuating some of his neighbors and it looked like his playing career was over. He missed two full seasons rehabilitating the injury. When he pronounced himself ready to return in season 15, skepticim abounded. The team was in a rebuilding year so the decision was made to give him his shot, and he responded by dominating the net all season, providing the only bright spot in an otherwise dismal 69 point season. In his final year, season 17, he broke the MLD record for wins in the regular season with an astonishing 50 victories, a mark that may prove almost as difficult to break as fellow Yowler Boucher's writing of the record book upon his retirement.

Unforutnately, as good as Hanhimaki was at times during the season, the playoffs were always his Waterloo. He won only ten games during his career, losing fourteen and always leaving fans with a bitter taste in their mouths. Even though the Yowlers made it deep into the playoffs several times during his career, he always managed to lose his starting position by the time the team was eliminated, leaving fans pointing a finger at him year after year as one reason Yorba Linda hasn't seen a championship since season nine. He wore #33 throughout his career, the only Yowler to do so. He won the "Most Improved" award in season 15, and the team MVP award in season 8 (shared with fellow goaltender Ethan Fabrell) and again in season 15.

After amiable day-long discussions with Yorkton GM drg, Yowler's GM yogsloth is pleased to announce a deal that will see MLD veteran goalie Roy Kakela come to Yorba Linda.

"As our fans are aware, season 18 is a bit of a rebuilding year for the franchise," confided GM yogsloth. "However, business-as-usual here in Yorba Linda means that even during rebuilding years we do what we need to to stay competitive. Our fans are the most vocal and demanding in the league, and they don't let us forget a single loss, let along a season-long slump."

"With the retirement of Branislav Hanhimaki, we knew we would have to find a new option in goal. Unfortunately, we quickly ran into some unforseen issues in that department. The guy we had lined up to take over the starting duties, Armstrong, secured a tryout with the ECHL franchise in Alaska this off-season, and we agreed to let him pursue that opportunity. Our guy Varenko we drafted this summer is committed to his team in Russia for the season, and although we have all the confidence in the world in Ethan Fabrell's ability, he just doesn't have the stamina to carry a team for a full season. That us with only one option - Hector Ramos."

A local player who grew up playing street hockey on the culdesacs of Santa Ana, Ramos was originially ticketed for a full season as the starting goalie for the Anaheim Hills Anacondas after serving as their backup (to Armstrong) last season. Instead, he found himself thrust into the role of starting goalie for the Yowlers, a role he wasn't prepared for.

"It's certainly not a case of Hec being unskilled - far from it. We believe he has a long future as a pro goaltender ahead of him. He was just rushed into the league too quickly, and mentally, playing in front of thousands of Yowler fans screaming for your blood wasn't exactly the best thing for his development," continued yog.

Ramos himself admits his struggles. "I actually think things were going okay until that game against Manchester," he began when contacted for this story, "I lost my first start in a close one, and won my second game. But against the storm, I had a really bad turnover in the 3rd period that cost us that game, and I just kind of unraveled. Furu took a shot and I saved it clean, but then I just passed it right back to him. It really sucks. I'm really really bummed."

"He never really even played that badly for us after that, but you could tell his confidence was just shot," continued yog. "He's actually part of the deal. He'll go straight to the Parkton Rangers to get some more quality development time in before getting his MLD chance at the proper time with Yorkton."

The full trade is Ramos, prospect Aldo Nemachuk, and a 2nd round pick before season 19 for goalie Roy Kakela, centerman Derrick Heikkanen, and a 1st round pick before season 20.

"Kakela is a veteran guy with a lot of talent. Although he's fallen out of favor a bit in Yorkton, he's been a #1 guy in this league, he's got over 70 wins... a winning record... and we believe he just needs a fresh start. With Roy on board, we feel much more secure in our goaltending, and that way Fabrell doesn't have to take on as much of a load as it was looking like we were going to give him. Heikkanen is a journeyman guy. He's played two MLD seasons, and although he hasn't broken out the way the Millers probably hoped he would, he still has a lot of hockey in him. He won't play this year, but he will definitely compete for a third-line job for us starting next year."

The other man in the deal, Nemachuk, is the one coach yog had the roughest time parting with.

"Well, you have to give to get, and Nemachuk is a heck of a player. He's currently leading the Anacondas in scoring with 14 points in 8 games. He's going to be special. Our plan was to have him spend the year in the MLDML and slide right into a top-six role next season. We were reserving uniform #7 for him, a jersey we've had a lot of luck with. We're quite confident Millers fans are going to be delighted with him. Losing him hurts, but picking up an extra first-round pick helps mitigate that loss a bit."

Kakela will take over Ramos' uniform #34, and Heikkanen will be assigned #42.

Another season, another crushing defeat at the hands of eventual cup-champions Maricopa. The good news for the franchise is that season 17's 107 point total and third-round showing was actually considered a rebuilding year, as the team warehoused several top players and endured goaltending uncertainty. Only one player retires this season:

C Billy Helmar GP G A PTS

Regular Season 518 72 77 149

Playoffs 65 11 9 20

Helmar came to the Yowlers out of junior hockey as a natural centerman. His critical deficiencies in the faceoff circle, however, meant that he played wing for almost his entire career. He was drafted to be a two-way player that would play a conservative, physical game and chip in offense when needed. He surprised everyone by having a fluke 20-goal season in the deadpuck era season 13, but for the most part, he played his checking role very consistently for the duration of his eight-season career. He actually earned the team's "Best Newcomer" award in his rookie year with his tenacious defensive play, despite only scoring 12 points. In his final season, he also earned some second-unit power-play time. Helmar wore #40 throughout his career.

The Yorba Linda Yowlers today announced a surprise trade with division-rivals Valhalla, made just after the Vikings arrived in Yorba Linda for tomorrow's match.

"It's pretty obvious we're going for it full-tilt this season," began Yowlers GM/coach yogsloth when contacted. "We're going for the record books, but obviously, regular-season records aren't worth a squirt of you-know-what once the playoffs begin."

With the trade deadline at midnight tonight and the Vikings conceding the season, word leaked out yesterday that Valhalla would be willing to part with retiring vets in exchange for younger players and picks. After a careful lookthrough of the Viking roster, coach yog picked up the phone and a deal was quickly struck.

Coming to the Yowlers are Valhalla's top two centermen, Punch Konsten and Kevin Mennander. Both players are longtime Vikings, and they've combined to score 78 points this season. "We're incredibly excited about both these guys," opined coach yog, "Both of them are tremendous defensively - good on the draw, great forecheckers, good playmakers... they're perfect fits for this team."

The two have somewhat limited playoff experience, however. "Well, yes, but that's not completely their fault. We think they'll do great. Most teams in the MLD warehouse their best talent for the playoffs. We have not done that this season - we've been putting our very best on the ice every night. That means that if we don't have some secret weapons to unleash in the playoffs, we'll be behind the competition. Both of these guys are itching for a chance to play for something meaningful. Valhalla had a 100 point season a while ago, but it's been four straight playoff misses, and these guys are hungry."

"Well, feelings are mixed, to be honest," began Konstan. "I've spent my entire career in Valhalla, and I really wanted to win a cup here. Of course it's great, though, to go to Yorba Linda. It's funny... Menner and I were actually just about to start practice here at the Yowler's rink when we got called in to the office... we just kind of packed our stuff and took it down the hall. At least we don't have to make an extra flight! But yeah, the Yowlers... just look at them! We have a fantastic chance to win it all here, and since this is my last season in the MLD, I can't think of a team I'd rather go to. Except maybe Kingston. Or Maricopa." Konstan will be issued #7 by the Yowlers, while Mennander will wear #24.

Going the other way are Yowler's journeyman center Nolan Helon and a third-round pick before season 20. "Helon played well for us, but Valhalla needed a centerman to go the other way, and he was who we settled on," coach yog told us. "He's actually been playing right wing for us this year, and he's done a great job as the forechecker on our 2nd line. We have no complaints about his play... +40 isn't too bad for a checking player, you know. It's true that we always had Helon pegged as being more of a scorer and he never really showed us what we wanted, but in a different environment, he could really blossom. The pick we had to include to even out the deal as well." Helon finishes his Yowler career with a respectable 45 goals and 50 assists for 95 points. He wore #38 throughout his stay in Yorba Linda.

After their crushing defeat in Reykjavik at the hands of the Vikings, the Yowlers journeyed home this weekend to clean out their lockers and go through season-ending coach's meetings. Even with the locker room closed to the press and public howver, several bystanders reported hearing a series of loud, angry exchanges, followed by crashing sounds and muffled explosions. When players finally the room - most without acknowledging reporters - rumors immediately began to abound about a physical confrontation between two groups of players, one of them led by defenseman Kaspars Torppala.

Season 19 has come to a crushing, humiliating end, and the loaded-for-bear Yowlers are now facing their largest ever wave of player retirements. No fewer than six players ride off into the sunset - some of them chased out of town by pitchfork-carrying mobs.

D Walter Schanin GP G A PTS

Regular Season 756 131 299 430

Playoffs 74 9 18 27

The fourth franchise player in Yowlers history, Schanin carries with him a legacy of regular-season excellence coupled with playoff frustration. He retires in 2nd place all-time among Yowlers scorers (but still over 100 points behind Sparky Clemons), but he actually leads all players in career SH goals, and more importantly, +/- rating with an astounding +259. Year in and year out, Schanin provided steady defensive play and excellent puck movement, adding a goal-scoring dimension to his game as he took on the mantle of Franchise Player. In the playoffs, however, Schanin was frequently seen to struggle. Although he never really palyed poorly, he certainly was never able to elevate his game, and as FP, his teams only won a total of five playoff rounds. This is criticism he always accepted, and he was well-known to take the burden of FP very heavily. Due to the team's policy of basing awards on regular-season performance only, Schanin captured 3 best D-man awards, 3 MVP awards (all during his FP seasons), and a Most-Improved award won early in his career. His most favored piece of hardware, however, is the Norris trophy he won as the league's best defenseman in season 19. He wore #6 throughout his career. The FP mantle now passes to defenseman Arch Peterson.

D Skene Nevari GP G A PTS

Regular Season 646 107 178 285

Playoffs 142 29 30 59

If Walter Schanin was known for playoff struggles, Nevari was notorious for it. Perhaps no player in MLD history was more scitzophrenic in the playoffs than Nevari: Although he retires as the Yowler's all-time leading playoff goal scorer (and third in points), he had an astounding (and by far team record) -21 rating in the post-season. Originally acquired in a trade with the New York Pussycats way back in season 5, Nevari existed for years as a fringe defender, rarely playing a full season. Come playoff time, however, he usually found himself earning minutes as the team struggled to score goals. Despite his risky style of play, the team would rely on him to try and score early in order to play with a lead. Nevari is actually the final player from the cup-winning season 9 team, a playoff year that saw him lead the team in goals... and finish dead last in +/-. No Yowlers player took more blame for recent playoff failures than Nevari, with fans often dubbing him and his defensive partner (most recently Erik Leclerq) the "escort service" for helping facilitate so many goals against. He wore #5 throughout his career, and captured the team's "Most Improved" award in season 12.

RW Colorado Jameson GP G A PTS

Regular Season 476 58 145 203

Playoffs 54 7 16 23

Another in an outstanding series of defensive forwards, the Yowlers will sorely miss the services of Colorado Jameson. Known his entire career for his tireless work in the defensive zone, Jameson overcame early injury problems to become a heavily-relied upon penalty killer and team leader. With the MLD's rule changes after season 15 that emphasized speed, Jameson's game was elevated to another level, and although he was never blessed with a fantastic shot, his footspeed enabled him to develop into a quality playmaker- eventually finishing 7th all-time for the team in assists. Like other players retiring this year, however, he often struggled in the playoffs to equal his performance in the regular season. Jameson was a +98 in the regular season (usually matched up against other teams' top lines), but even in the playoffs. He was a 59.9% career faceoff man, but sometimes struggled to win even half in the playoffs. Jameson won two Best Defensive Forward team awards, along with an Unsung Hero award. He wore #44 throughout his career.

LW Gregg Pikachuk GP G A PTS

Regular Season 507 77 121 198

Playoffs 70 9 13 22

Pikachuk came to the Yowlers as a high-flying junior scoring star - a promise that he seemed sure to deliver after co-leading the team in goals his rookie season (21 goals in season 13). He never again matched that total, however, and his career settled in to a workman-like third line role for most of his career. Like any other professional hockey player who wishes to play for Yorba Linda, Pikachuk was challenged to improve his defensive game, and he largely responded. He did win the team's Best Newcomer award for his rookie year, but he also took home a "Most Improved" award as well after his defensive game took shape. Fans never really took to him, however, as they were expecting production more along the lines of his rookie season. He wore #36 throughout his career.

C Punch Konsten GP G A PTS

Regular Season 429 50 172 222

Playoffs 29 3 6 9

One of two players acquired from Valhalla for the season 19 playoff run, Konsten had little time to make his impression on Yowlers fans. He brought a stong defensive game to the team, and proved a valuable faceoff man and secondary scorer for the team during his brief stay. He had 13 points in 16 regular season games after the trade, but fizzled during the playoffs with only 3 points in 11 games. With his MLD career over, Konsten intends to return to Valhalla to find work as an auto mechanic. He wore #7 during his tenure with the team.

C Kevan Mennander GP G A PTS

Regular Season 454 70 105 175

Playoffs 24 2 7 9

In contrast to Punch Konsten, Mennander managed to acheive some measure of tanglible success with the Yowlers after his trade from Valhalla. In 16 regular-season games, he had 12 points and was a +12 as he single-handedly transformed the team's fourth line into a top scoring unit. He then led the team in scoring in the post-season with 6 points and a fantastic +7 as he combined with Jean-Marc Martin to create a formidible scoring duo. Yowlers fans would love to have him return to the team, but of course, his short visit to the team is all that is allowed under MLD rules. He wore #24 for his brief stay in Yorba Linda.

After putting it out on the wire a few weeks ago that a veteran D-man was desired, Yowlers coach/gm yogsloth was able to land his man. Four-season veteran Gilbert Silvasti comes over to Yorba Linda in exchange for minor-league forward Lindy Palmqvist.

"Well, it's not really even a matter of needing a body to plug in right now," began coach yog, "It really has to do with projecting a few seasons down the line. We have some elite veterans on the edge of retirement, and some top-notch prospects just beginning their MLD careers, but we were a little short on some mid-career guys. You can't have all your vets retire at once and rely only on your kids... you've got to take these things in stages or you've got a big hole in your lineup."

Silvasti arrives with a reasonably impressive resumé: 327 regular-season games and 130 points. His career plus/minus of -23 doesn't quite fit with what Yowlers fans expect, but some of that could be explained by Halifax's status as a middle-of-the-pack team in recent seasons.

"I'm very excited, yes," began Silvasti when contacted. "Of course everyone regards Yorba Linda as a great place to play, especially for defensemen. They don't really let you shoot the puck very much in Halifax, so I can't wait for Yowler fans to see what I'm really capable of. Of course, eveyone also knows Yorba Linda's playoff struggles, so I'm hoping I can help to turn that around." Silvasti will take over #3 for the Yowlers.

Going the other way is recent draft pick Lindy Palmqvist, who was playing for the Anaheim Hills Anacondas at the time of the deal. "As always, you have to give to get," said coach yog, "And Palmqvist, although struggling a bit this year with a few nagging injuries, was a real good prospect for us. He's an extremely quick learner, and we had him pegged as a contributing forward for us in 2-3 seasons. We certainly wish him luck in Halifax."

Yowlers coach/gm yogsloth orchestrated another minor trade today, as the team picked up Tornados starting goaltender Daryl Tast for a 3rd round pick.

"Again, you know, it's not for a big need right now... we're just planning ahead over the next several seasons," began coach yog when contacted for this story. "We've got our goaltending mapped out pretty thoroughly for the next several seasons. Our two workhorse guys (Armstrong and Kakela) are almost ready to retire, and we've been having terrible difficulties getting our guy in the KHL out of his contract to bring him over. We're not like the NHL where we can drop big money to buy out one of these Russian deals - we've got to wait until we can get him free and clear. That's us with some uncertainty in net, so we needed an experienced guy that can come in and play some games for us until we know for certain where we stand."

Tast is certainly experienced - he arrives with almost 220 hours (including 95 wins and 12 shutouts) under his belt, giving him little time until MLD rules require his retirement.

"I have some mixed feelings," relayed Tast, "Anoka I think are looking to rebuild a little, and I guess I don't factor into those plans anymore. I would have liked to have stayed, but of course Yorba Linda is a great organization to go to. Unfortunately, it looks like I'm heading to the MLDML for the rest of this year, so that's a bummer too. I just hope I can help out in some way before the league kicks me out."

Tast will be assigned uniform number 33 upon his callup to Yorba Linda.

After another disappointing early playoff exit, the Yowlers say goodbye to two more top-notch players. With only two draft picks this season, and losing the team's two best defensive forwards, the Yowlers will attempt to re-group for season 21 with a depleted group up front.

RW Luciano Grandebastone

GP G A PTS

Regular Season 511 62 182 244

Playoffs 75 7 22 29

Another in a long series of elite defensive players, the Yowlers are forced to relinquish the exceptional services of Grandebastone. Much more than just a defensive specialist, Luciano leaves as one of the greatest-scoring forwards in team History. Although never a sniper, his playmaking ability leaves him as the Yowlers' franchise leader among forwards in assists (and only behind Markus Levy in points). Additionally, his assist total actually places him in fifth all-time... behind only four of the team's former franchise players. He is also eighth all-time with a +171 rating. His team hardware includes a Best Newcomer awardy (season 14), an Unsung Hero award (season 17), and a Best Defensive Forward and Team MVP awards from season 20. He becomes only the fourth forward in team history to take seasonal MVP honors. Luciano retires to return to the Italian Serie A league from whence he was originally drafted by the Yowlers. He wore #10 throughout his career in Yorba Linda.

LW Jean-Marc Martin GP G A PTS

Regular Season 528 98 109 207

Playoffs 74 12 15 27

A quiet two-way forward, Martin rarely made much of a splash with the team during his tenure with the franchise. Nevertheless, he represented the type of quality character, hard work, and defensive talent that has made the franchise thrive over the years. Although he finished at 13th place all-time in scoring, his career mark of +175 is staggering for a player that rarely received much note from the press or fans. He did win the Best Defensive Forward team award in season 17, but no other hardware. Unfortunately, like many latter-era Yowlers, his regular-season success often didn't translate effectively in the playoffs. He wore #55 for the team.

Another good year for the Yowlers saw the team rack up 110 points and last until the third round in the playoffs, where they fell to eventual champions Pontiac. Considering the franchise wasn't in full win-now mode, fans were pleasantly surprised at the devlopement of some of the team's prospects. Retirements do hit the franchise hard this year, however. Presented here in the new "WiS forum format" for the first time:

RW Jonas Ackerfeldt

Reg Season

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 15

19

3

2

5

0

0

0

5

35

24

12.5

48.3

4:26:58

Season 16

80

6

21

27

2

0

2

-5

253

57

10.5

100.0

19:47:25

Season 17

82

12

24

36

2

0

3

37

18

82

14.6

0.0

21:55:49

Season 18

82

14

32

46

3

0

2

26

20

77

18.2

49.0

20:40:16

Season 19

82

16

28

44

1

0

0

67

16

83

19.3

0.0

22:14:17

Season 20

82

12

26

38

1

0

3

14

14

89

13.5

51.6

20:21:21

Season 21

82

28

21

49

2

0

3

19

18

89

31.5

54.1

20:23:26

509

91

154

245

11

0

13

163

374

501

18.3

51.5

131:25:27

Playoffs

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 16

6

0

1

1

0

0

0

-4

2

1

0.0

0.0

1:37:16

Season 17

19

1

7

8

0

0

1

7

0

14

7.1

0.0

5:09:19

Season 18

13

2

3

5

0

0

0

3

2

10

20.0

0.0

3:21:02

Season 19

11

0

1

1

0

0

0

0

4

9

0.0

0.0

2:50:10

Season 20

10

2

1

3

1

0

0

0

0

8

25.0

55.3

2:36:49

Season 21

18

2

4

6

1

0

1

6

2

14

14.3

50.0

4:42:25

77

7

17

24

2

0

2

12

10

56

12.5

52.0

20:17:01

Ackerfeldt, known as "The Swedish Assassin", arrived in the MLD with a reputation for savagery. Although goonery is a rare trait in the MLD these days, Jonas came to Yorba Linda after having been banned from the SEL for fighting with a pair of knuckledusters hidden under the tin foil he had wrapped around his hands. His first season was spent racking up and impressive 456 PIM for the Anheim Hills Anacondas (with an additional 35 during his callup to Yorba Linda) while learning the North American game. A player with far more intelligence (both on and off the ice) than he usually let on, Ackerfeldt developed into a solid-two way physical player. Over time he cut out the goonery but retained the hard physical edge that opened up the ice for his teammates so well. He won the team's "Unsung Hero" award in his final season after chipping in a career-high 28 goals. He wore the franchise's highest number ever awarded - #91. He also retires in third place on the team's all-time PIM list... although only the inimitable Kaspars Torppala ever had a single-season PIM total higher than Ackerfeld'ts 253 in season 16.

C Shane Myrdahl

Reg Season

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 12

16

0

3

3

0

0

0

1

0

23

0.0

38.6

4:02:20

Season 13

82

9

9

18

0

0

0

14

16

98

9.2

50.0

19:08:52

Season 14

19

2

3

5

0

0

0

1

4

33

6.1

59.0

4:18:50

Season 15

16

1

1

2

0

0

0

-3

4

26

3.8

39.0

4:04:30

Season 16

82

11

18

29

0

1

1

32

14

94

11.7

37.7

21:19:55

Season 17

82

16

10

26

0

0

2

25

10

100

16.0

33.3

19:24:41

Season 18

82

18

16

34

0

0

1

26

10

106

17.0

43.9

18:28:11

Season 19

82

32

26

58

0

0

8

67

12

193

16.6

0.0

21:01:47

Season 20

19

9

8

17

1

0

0

20

4

43

20.9

0.0

4:55:41

Season 21

82

20

28

48

1

0

3

40

2

125

16.0

48.7

21:30:04

562

118

122

240

2

1

15

223

76

841

13.9

46.1

139:43:28

Playoffs

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 13

5

0

1

1

0

0

0

-2

2

8

0.0

57.1

1:10:46

Season 16

6

0

1

1

0

0

0

1

2

5

0.0

66.7

1:29:03

Season 17

19

2

4

6

0

0

0

2

2

20

10.0

0.0

4:38:36

Season 18

13

6

0

6

0

0

1

7

2

21

28.6

0.0

3:06:52

Season 19

11

3

2

5

0

0

1

0

4

17

17.6

0.0

2:50:10

Season 20

10

0

3

3

0

0

0

-3

0

13

0.0

0.0

2:38:14

Season 21

18

2

8

10

0

0

0

3

6

21

9.5

0.0

4:58:23

82

13

19

32

0

0

2

8

18

105

12.4

54.5

20:52:04

A classic case of a "Diamond in the Rough", Myrdahl was a late-round draft pick who struggled for years to crack the Yowlers' roster. Four seasons after being drafted, he had only suited up for 133 games - mostly as an injury replacement, and had done little to assure himself a permanent spot in the lineup. Over time, however, he gradually improved in all areas of his game, beginning as a defensive-minded fourth-line center and eventually breaking through into a 30+ goal scorer - a season that saw him capture the team's "Most Improved" trophy. Myrdahl wore #16 throughout his MLD career.

C Derrick Hiekkanen

Reg Seas

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Previous Team

75

7

3

10

0

0

0

-25

12

122

5.7

46.1

16:04:18

Previous Team

67

7

8

15

0

0

3

-2

14

95

7.4

44.1

14:28:50

Season 18

46

5

17

22

0

0

3

21

6

48

10.4

38.8

12:46:05

Season 19

82

15

23

38

0

0

4

36

10

77

19.5

0.0

19:03:36

Season 20

82

10

31

41

0

0

4

3

8

84

11.9

52.4

20:10:06

Season 21

82

15

16

31

0

1

2

-3

6

75

20.0

51.5

19:30:08

434

59

98

157

0

1

16

30

56

501

11.8

47.2

102:03:03

Playoffs

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 18

13

1

2

3

0

0

0

7

2

10

10.0

0.0

3:05:35

Season 19

11

2

2

4

0

0

0

7

0

11

18.2

0.0

2:37:40

Season 20

10

1

0

1

0

0

0

-9

2

9

11.1

45.2

2:29:17

Season 21

18

1

6

7

0

0

0

2

0

20

5.0

59.6

4:29:10

52

5

10

15

0

0

0

7

4

50

10.0

54.9

12:41:42

Originally a throw-in to the Kakela trade, Heikkanen arrived without much fanfare but quietly did everything asked of him by the Yowlers. Never a particularly talented player, he toiled on the fourth line and second penalty-kill units. Although prone to the occaisonal undisciplined penalty, he became the very definition of the workmanlike defensive player that can find success in Yorba Linda. Well-liked by his teammates despite his quiet nature, Roy won the team's "Unsung Hero" award in season 18 after the trade that brought him from Yorkton. He wore #42 during his tenure in Yorba Linda.

G Roy Kakela

Reg Season

GP

W

L

T

GA

GAA

SO

SA

S

S%

TOI

Previous Team

4

1

1

0

9

3.95

0

36

27

75.00

2:16:45

Previous Team

47

18

13

7

82

2.02

3

1157

1075

92.91

40:37:20

Previous Team

22

9

8

2

43

2.43

2

498

455

91.37

17:42:51

Previous Team

47

25

12

5

113

2.65

4

736

623

84.65

42:42:20

Previous Team

36

19

11

1

94

3.18

0

598

504

84.28

29:32:13

Season 18

58

35

17

6

122

2.08

5

967

845

87.38

58:41:55

Season 20

58

31

20

7

144

2.50

7

1040

896

86.15

57:41:56

Season 21

58

39

11

8

100

1.71

12

862

762

88.40

58:26:53

330

177

93

36

707

2.30

33

5894

5187

88.0

307:42:13

Playoffs

GP

W

L

T

GA

GAA

SO

SA

S

S%

TOI

Previous Team

2

0

1

0

8

3.92

0

64

56

87.50

2:02:33

Previous Team

2

0

1

0

5

2.53

0

68

63

92.65

1:58:27

Previous Team

9

4

5

0

27

3.06

0

154

127

82.47

8:49:57

Season 18

2

2

0

0

3

1.50

0

25

22

88.00

2:00:00

Season 21

13

8

5

0

22

1.61

3

216

194

89.81

13:38:38

28

14

12

0

65

2.28

3

527

462

87.7

28:29:35

Brought to Yorba Linda in a highly controversial trade with Yorkton, Kakela came to the team during a time of goaltending crisis and quickly eclipsed the expectations the team and fans had for him. His 177 career victories and 33 shutouts compare quite favorably with other Yowler standout netminders Pokela and Hanhimaki, even though only 105 wins and 24 shoutouts actually came with the team. A tenacious goaltender, Kakela was entertaining to watch for his propensity to come out of his net to challenge shooters - even frequently moving beyond the crease to do so. He absolutely shown in the playoffs, leading many Yowler fans to publicly question why he got so little playing time in the post-season, usually stuck behind often-injured but talented Ethan Fabrell. Kakela won the team's "Best Newcomer" award in season 18 after the trade. He wore #34 for the team.

Yowlers owner/GM yogsloth to take "temporary leave of absence", hand over reigns to sons

Following the Yowler's disappointing first-round beating at the hands of Okanagan, team owner/GM yogsloth called a press conference to make an important announcement:

"After 22 seasons of triumph, frustration, and agony, it's time for me to take a season away from the team. I leave and breathe this team, and it's gotten to the point where I almost can't think of anything else. I'm making line combinations in my dreams and pouring over draft lists in the john. This has got to stop. I love this team, but I am going to take a one-year leave of absence to concentrate on my many other loves - pigeons, bottlecaps, and really boring books."

Coach yog declined to take questions, immediately ducking into a waiting car behind the podium.

The team then introduced yogsloth's replacements for the coming season: his sons, Andrew and Logan.

"I LOVE Chick-Fil-A! They have a SLIDE!" announced two-year-old Andrew, beaming. Repeated questions on the state of the franchise or what this management change would mean for the team were turned aside with further announcements of admiration for the popular chicken restaurant. His brother and new business partner Logan, aged sixteen months, appeared to be eating a kleenex.

While this announcement has come as quite a surprise to the team's fanbase, it certainly indicates no shortage of excitement for the upcoming season.

I like Captain America. He goes WHOOOSH! He's running. I have Mickey underpants. I saw Mickey at Disneyland! He doesn't talk. Maybe he's sleeping? I love oatmeal. I love... no Logan, that's MY Captain America... NO LOGAN. NOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! (*)

(*)Press release dictated by team co-president Andrew, player write-ups and commentary by Yowlers staff

D Arch Peterson

Regular Season Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 11

82

18

12

30

2

0

0

15

12

200

9.0

0.0

26:53:40

Season 14

82

14

7

21

0

0

0

-3

6

208

6.7

0.0

26:25:43

Season 15

82

19

14

33

1

0

0

0

10

229

8.3

0.0

26:24:56

Season 16

82

36

20

56

2

0

9

29

0

219

16.4

0.0

26:51:24

Season 17

82

32

32

64

3

1

5

49

0

188

17.0

0.0

27:33:44

Season 18

19

5

1

6

0

0

0

8

0

20

25.0

0.0

6:30:55

Season 19

82

19

34

53

2

0

5

48

0

101

18.8

0.0

29:05:30

Season 20

82

13

53

66

0

0

2

37

0

111

11.7

0.0

27:57:06

Season 21

82

20

41

61

0

0

3

33

4

118

16.9

0.0

28:22:13

Current Season

82

19

54

73

2

0

3

38

0

112

17.0

0.0

28:02:42

757

195

268

463

12

1

27

254

32

1506

12.9

0.0

256:12:38

Playoff Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 11

6

0

0

0

0

0

0

-3

0

14

0.0

0.0

2:00:09

Season 16

6

4

0

4

0

0

1

-3

0

12

33.3

0.0

2:01:49

Season 17

19

2

4

6

0

0

1

0

0

24

8.3

0.0

6:33:02

Season 18

13

2

10

12

0

0

0

16

0

13

15.4

0.0

4:06:44

Season 19

11

0

2

2

0

0

0

-6

0

5

0.0

0.0

3:54:17

Season 20

10

0

3

3

0

0

0

-4

0

10

0.0

0.0

3:38:30

Season 21

18

4

6

10

0

0

2

4

0

27

14.8

0.0

6:26:12

Current Season

5

1

1

2

0

0

0

-2

0

1

100.0

0.0

1:43:28

88

13

26

39

0

0

4

2

0

106

12.3

0.0

30:24:11

The fifth franchise player in team history hangs up his skates this off-season, as highly talented offensive defenseman Arch Peterson has completed his nine seasons of service. Known for his blistering and accurate slap shot, Peterson finishes his career with a surprising number of team records. In the regular season, he finishes as the all-time leader in goals and shots, and is second on games played and plus/minus. It's that last mark that stands as his proudest achievement, given that at the time he was drafted, he was seen as a one-dimensional offensive player. It wasn't until his fourth season that he really put his game together and became an elite talent at both ends of the ice. He had six seasons at +29 or better, has two of the top five single-season assist marks in team history, and is one of only three defenseman to have a single season with 35+ goals. Like several of his FP predescesors, however, he couldn't match his regular-season success to post-season victories. Other than an amazing run in season 18, he consistently struggled in the playoffs, frequently finishing on the minus side of the ledger and scoring only 13 goals in 88 games. It was a burden he wore heavily, and in fact, was probably never fully comfortable with the Franchise Player tag. He is the only Yowlers FP never to win the team's MVP award in any individual season, although he did win two "Outstanding Defenseman" awards, as well as the team's "Best Newcomer" trophy his rookie season. He wore number 23 throughout his Yowler career.

LW Denis Ustorf

Regular Season Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 13

70

1

18

19

0

0

0

-5

18

79

1.3

42.4

16:58:38

Season 15

33

0

2

2

0

0

0

3

6

42

0.0

36.5

7:26:24

Season 16

19

1

3

4

0

0

0

6

8

18

5.6

0.0

4:16:43

Season 17

58

3

19

22

0

0

1

12

12

70

4.3

48.1

14:05:24

Season 18

19

2

4

6

0

0

0

5

0

15

13.3

50.9

5:15:58

Season 19

19

1

10

11

0

1

0

8

0

13

7.7

59.0

4:22:00

Season 20

82

18

35

53

2

0

4

40

2

117

15.4

62.1

21:46:05

Season 21

82

21

42

63

3

0

6

40

0

105

20.0

59.1

23:07:26

Current Season

82

15

46

61

1

0

3

27

4

82

18.3

54.9

22:36:41

464

62

179

241

6

1

14

134

50

541

11.5

56.3

120:27:05

Playoff Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 17

19

1

5

6

0

0

0

2

4

8

12.5

0.0

4:38:36

Season 20

10

1

1

2

0

0

0

-3

0

4

25.0

62.9

2:40:41

Season 21

18

5

6

11

0

0

0

3

0

20

25.0

58.4

5:05:48

Current Season

5

0

0

0

0

0

0

-1

0

5

0.0

71.4

1:20:25

52

7

12

19

0

0

0

1

4

37

18.9

61.3

13:45:30

Yet another in a seemingly endless assembly-line of elite defensive forwards, German-born Ustorf overcame injury problems early in his career to become a highly reliable checker and penalty killer. Although never blessed with much natural offensive talent, later in his career he became one of the team's leading playmakers, using his speed and tenacity to dig up pucks for his more skilled teammates. It was actually thought of Ustorf earlier in his career that he would wash out... seven seasons after being drafted, he had burned three years of eligibilty, but had only scored a laughable 8 total goals. Ironically, it was only after he was converted to a defense-only role that his offensive abilities developed. Amazingly, he actually finishes his career as the highest-scoring LW in team history with 241 points! Although Ustorf never actually won many team accolades, his amazing two-way numbers in season 21 earned him the best piece of hardware the team offers - its "MVP award. He wore number 43 throughout his career, and returns to the DEL to continue his professional career.

G Daryl Tast

Regular Season Statistics

GP

W

L

T

GA

GAA

SO

SA

S

S%

TOI

Previous Team

1

0

0

0

2

2.98

0

31

29

93.55

00:40:20

Previous Team

7

2

4

1

18

2.54

0

229

211

92.14

7:05:00

Previous Team

6

4

2

0

15

2.50

1

182

167

91.76

6:00:00

Previous Team

7

2

3

2

14

1.95

1

205

191

93.17

7:10:00

Previous Team

23

11

7

3

45

2.04

4

607

562

92.59

22:01:39

Previous Team

28

14

9

1

55

2.20

3

691

636

92.04

25:02:11

Previous Team

44

3

12

2

131

4.42

0

1064

933

87.69

29:36:26

Previous Team

44

19

18

4

137

3.49

1

947

810

85.53

39:12:18

Previous Team

45

19

17

2

145

3.90

0

1004

859

85.56

37:09:54

Previous Team

19

9

4

2

55

3.47

0

390

335

85.90

15:51:37

Season 20

4

2

1

0

9

2.80

0

77

68

88.31

3:12:50

Previous Team

32

12

18

1

116

3.96

2

743

627

84.39

29:19:11

Season 21

25

10

10

4

66

2.68

1

402

336

83.58

24:38:06

Current Season

75

48

18

8

171

2.30

8

1111

940

84.61

74:17:42

360

155

123

30

979

3.05

21

7683

6704

87.3

321:17:14

Playoff Statistics

GP

W

L

T

GA

GAA

SO

SA

S

S%

TOI

Previous Team

1

0

0

0

0

0.00

0

16

16

100.00

00:38:42

Previous Team

1

0

0

0

2

6.07

0

7

5

71.43

00:19:46

Previous Team

3

0

2

0

8

3.28

0

55

47

85.45

2:26:28

Previous Team

1

0

0

0

0

0.00

0

0

0

-

00:11:44

Season 21

5

3

1

0

5

1.19

1

52

47

90.38

4:12:51

Current Season

4

1

3

0

10

2.49

1

43

33

76.74

4:00:50

15

4

6

0

25

2.11

2

173

148

85.5

11:50:21

Acquired in a trade with Anoka to be a stop-gap solution and backup goaltender for a season or two only, Tast surprised everyone with his tenacity and talent. Used largely in a backup or mop-up role in Anoka (that's not a typo above - in season 16 he played 44 games with only 17 decisions) he came to Yorba Linda prepared to take the same role. His surprising play (especially coming in as an injury replacement in the season 21 playoffs) led him to earning a season as a starter in Yorba Linda. He responded with a 48 win season as he led the team to a surprising 114 point season when fans were actually expecting a bit of a rebuilding year. He was rewarded with the team's "MVP" award for season 22. His career numbers of 155 wins and 21 shutouts actually compare quite favorably with prior Yowlers netminders. It's safe to say the 60 wins and 9 shutouts posted for the Yowlers far exceeded the team's expectations. He wore number 33 for the team.

After yet another 100+ point season in which the Yowlers put it all on the line to try and win that elusive 4th MLD championship, the team currently faces a whopping seven retirements. It will certainly be a much different team in Yorba Linda next season, as most of the retirees were key contributors to the team's success.

LW Jergus Mitchell

Regular Season Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 13

82

8

9

17

0

0

0

16

12

121

6.6

33.5

19:59:00

Season 15

19

1

2

3

0

0

0

3

0

20

5.0

33.9

4:42:42

Season 16

17

7

2

9

0

0

1

6

0

28

25.0

0.0

4:02:59

Season 17

19

6

3

9

0

0

1

5

0

33

18.2

0.0

4:36:56

Season 18

82

26

16

42

0

0

5

31

2

151

17.2

0.0

19:52:25

Season 19

82

24

11

35

0

0

6

47

2

188

12.8

100.0

20:12:48

Season 21

82

5

21

26

2

0

1

35

2

61

8.2

75.0

21:30:33

Season 22

82

12

23

35

0

0

3

28

2

88

13.6

0.0

20:57:11

Current Season

82

17

31

48

0

0

4

60

10

82

20.7

31.0

21:32:52

547

106

118

224

2

0

21

231

30

772

13.7

34.0

138:23:07

Playoff Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 13

5

0

0

0

0

0

0

-5

0

1

0.0

27.8

1:14:42

Season 16

6

1

1

2

0

0

0

2

0

12

8.3

0.0

1:28:25

Season 18

13

1

2

3

0

0

0

3

0

24

4.2

0.0

3:16:44

Season 19

11

2

1

3

0

0

0

-6

0

20

10.0

0.0

2:51:38

Season 21

18

2

3

5

0

0

0

2

2

9

22.2

0.0

4:45:04

Season 22

5

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

2

0.0

0.0

1:18:14

Current Season

18

2

3

5

0

0

1

-2

0

10

20.0

0.0

4:58:00

76

8

10

18

0

0

1

-6

2

78

10.3

27.8

19:52:47

A steady performer at both ends of the ice, Mitchell largely made his living in front of the opposition's net, tipping in shots from the point and banging in garbage rebounds. After a lenghty apprentenceship in the minors, Mitchell turned in steller back-to-back seasons of 20+ goals early in his career. (Earning him the team's "Most Improved" award after season 18.) A mysterious virus that didn't keep him out of the lineup, but robbed him of much of his stamina, deeply affected him after that. Although he was never quite the same after that illness, he continue to be a valuable member of the team. He wore the unusual number of 35 for the team throughout his career.

LW Hubie Coltrain

Regular Season Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 17

19

0

2

2

0

0

0

4

0

21

0.0

0.0

4:30:49

Season 18

80

14

12

26

0

0

0

5

4

131

10.7

0.0

19:33:47

Season 19

82

16

17

33

0

0

4

28

4

133

12.0

0.0

19:08:22

Season 20

82

12

26

38

0

0

0

9

2

95

12.6

100.0

20:19:50

Season 21

82

12

16

28

0

0

3

23

0

79

15.2

0.0

19:25:38

Season 22

82

15

12

27

0

0

3

28

2

88

17.0

0.0

20:55:35

Current Season

82

16

27

43

0

0

1

45

2

87

18.4

0.0

18:28:36

509

85

112

197

0

0

11

142

14

634

13.5

100.0

122:48:50

Playoff Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 18

13

3

0

3

0

0

0

2

6

23

13.0

0.0

3:19:07

Season 19

11

2

2

4

0

0

0

1

0

13

15.4

0.0

2:41:35

Season 20

10

1

0

1

0

0

0

-9

0

8

12.5

0.0

2:28:30

Season 21

18

1

2

3

0

0

0

6

0

10

10.0

0.0

4:36:19

Season 22

5

1

0

1

0

0

0

0

0

3

33.3

0.0

1:18:14

Current Season

18

3

3

6

0

0

0

2

0

20

15.0

0.0

4:10:17

75

11

7

18

0

0

0

2

6

77

14.3

0.0

18:34:02

Little-used fourth-liner Coltrain epitomises the way even grinding forward for Yorba Linda can compile impressive stats given enough time. A model of consistency, Coltrain managed to produce dependable (if unspectacular) numbers and quality defensive play despite a rotating-cast of linemates. Never a lethal goal-scorer or a talented playmaker, Hubie still managed to pile up almost 200 points and never finished as a minus player in any of his seasons. He won no team awards - only the respect of his teammates, as he utilized his limited talent to its utmost capacity every night. He wore #12 for the team.

D Jarmo Bethere

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 15

82

13

4

17

0

0

0

-13

20

213

6.1

0.0

27:32:01

Season 16

82

40

6

46

0

0

3

32

4

225

17.8

0.0

28:09:01

Season 17

82

13

9

22

2

0

5

28

8

112

11.6

0.0

29:20:08

Season 18

82

13

26

39

2

1

3

27

2

84

15.5

0.0

30:23:46

Season 19

82

22

28

50

1

0

3

91

6

121

18.2

0.0

27:24:53

Season 20

19

5

6

11

0

0

1

7

0

21

23.8

0.0

5:52:33

Season 21

14

2

5

7

1

0

0

10

2

20

10.0

0.0

4:31:04

Current Season

82

19

43

62

0

1

2

68

2

125

15.2

0.0

29:01:13

525

127

127

254

6

2

17

250

44

921

13.7

0.0

184:19:53

Playoff Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 16

6

3

1

4

0

0

1

4

0

16

18.8

0.0

2:03:25

Season 17

19

3

1

4

0

0

0

-2

0

15

20.0

0.0

7:01:29

Season 18

13

2

3

5

0

0

1

-4

0

14

14.3

0.0

4:54:47

Season 19

11

2

0

2

0

0

0

4

0

10

20.0

0.0

3:51:32

Season 20

10

3

1

4

0

0

2

-2

0

12

25.0

0.0

3:09:38

Current Season

18

0

11

11

0

0

0

5

0

11

0.0

0.0

6:43:32

77

13

17

30

0

0

4

5

0

78

16.7

0.0

27:44:23

With one of the hardest slapshots in franchise history, Bethere (Buh-THER-e) blasted himself into the Yowlers' record books with an incredible 40-goal season in the MLD's first season after the offensive-friendly rule changes. Not content to be simply a human cannon, Bethere not only holds the franchise mark for goals in a season by a D-man, he holds the record for best +/- rating in one season with a ridiculous +91. In fact, his rating of +250 is the best of any non-franchise player in team history, placing him "up and over" every single one of his teammates. Bethere never won a Best Defender award for the team, but he did take home the "Unsung Hero" award in season 19, "Best Newcomer" in season 15, and "Most Improved" in season 16. His presence will be terribly missed, as he had the ability to single-handedly dominate a game, and his abscence leaves a gaping hole on the blueline. He wore #2 at the start of his Yowlers career, and switched to #14 during season 16 when the team re-aquired Kip Fulton.

D Gilbert Silvasti

Regular Season Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Previous Team

82

10

18

28

0

0

0

8

4

186

5.4

0.0

27:43:43

Previous Team

74

3

25

28

0

0

0

-12

0

118

2.5

0.0

24:38:55

Previous Team

15

1

5

6

0

0

0

-3

0

19

5.3

0.0

5:04:26

Previous Team

65

3

29

32

0

0

1

-4

2

14

21.4

0.0

22:27:35

Previous Team

82

1

28

29

0

0

0

-13

6

16

6.3

0.0

32:00:33

Previous Team

9

1

6

7

0

0

1

1

0

1

100.0

0.0

3:01:43

Season 20

6

1

7

8

0

0

1

7

0

3

33.3

0.0

1:47:56

Season 21

68

16

36

52

0

1

3

25

4

93

17.2

0.0

23:52:31

Current Season

82

21

57

78

0

0

2

67

6

110

19.1

0.0

29:22:26

483

57

211

268

0

1

8

76

22

560

10.2

0.0

169:59:48

Playoff Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Previous Team

11

0

3

3

0

0

0

3

0

27

0.0

0.0

3:59:47

Previous Team

4

0

0

0

0

0

0

-5

0

0

-

0.0

1:31:55

Season 20

10

0

2

2

0

0

0

-2

0

11

0.0

0.0

3:05:50

Season 21

18

1

6

7

0

0

0

5

0

20

5.0

0.0

6:37:12

Current Season

18

3

11

14

0

0

2

5

4

17

17.6

0.0

6:31:21

61

4

22

26

0

0

2

6

4

75

5.3

0.0

21:46:05

Acquired from the Halifax Mooseheads for talented minor-leaguer Lindy Palmqvist, Silvasti arrived in Yorba Linda with a reputation for quality play in somewhat limited minutes. Coach/gm yogsloth felt his offensive talents were not being allowed to shine through for the Mooseheads, and once plugged into the lineup, Silvasti delivered with substantial offense to go with his defensive prowess. Although he only played two full seasons for the Yowlers, his final year saw him win the team's "Most Improved", "Outstanding Defenceman", and "MVP" awards as he championed the team through a 121 point season and deep playoff run. HIs 57 assists that season are actually the third-highest single-season total in franchise history. He wore #3 during his brief stay with the team.

D Frederic Voltaire

Regular Season Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 11

82

11

14

25

3

0

0

-2

24

198

5.6

0.0

28:10:50

Season 13

4

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

12

0.0

0.0

1:20:00

Season 15

76

11

11

22

0

0

0

-11

16

207

5.3

0.0

25:04:19

Season 16

82

13

21

34

0

1

3

-5

2

152

8.6

0.0

25:10:12

Season 18

82

16

37

53

0

0

3

23

4

98

16.3

0.0

28:33:10

Season 19

19

5

10

15

1

0

3

8

0

26

19.2

0.0

5:55:27

Season 20

82

17

36

53

0

0

3

35

14

84

20.2

0.0

29:23:11

Season 21

8

2

12

14

0

0

0

11

0

16

12.5

0.0

2:53:54

Current Season

82

24

47

71

0

0

3

67

4

126

19.0

0.0

24:53:01

517

99

188

287

4

1

15

126

64

919

10.8

0.0

171:24:04

Playoff Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 18

13

0

5

5

0

0

0

-4

0

10

0.0

0.0

4:45:21

Season 20

10

1

3

4

0

0

1

2

2

7

14.3

0.0

3:42:15

Current Season

18

3

6

9

0

0

0

-2

0

19

15.8

0.0

5:46:38

41

4

14

18

0

0

1

-4

2

36

11.1

0.0

14:14:14

A true curiousity for Yowlers historians, despite largely excellent regular-season numbers, Voltaire rarely saw playoff time. A combination of early-career injury troubles, an always-crowded team blueline, and some rumored personality conflicts with coaching staff conspired to limit Voltaire to only appear in three different post-seasons despite piling up nearly 300 regular-season points. Never the strongest skater, Voltaire was prone to the occaisonal interference penalty, but made up for it with strong instincts and a deft touch with the puck. He was named the team's "Most Improved" player after season 20's strong defensive effort. He won no team awards. He wore #8 for the team.

C Pierre-Marc Patin

Regular Season Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 14

17

3

1

4

0

0

0

2

2

14

21.4

34.1

3:47:24

Season 15

14

0

1

1

0

0

0

-8

4

17

0.0

30.8

3:19:58

Season 16

4

1

1

2

0

0

0

0

0

7

14.3

0.0

00:57:25

Season 17

82

10

15

25

0

0

2

19

10

110

9.1

0.0

18:41:57

Season 18

72

7

17

24

0

0

0

16

2

87

8.0

50.0

16:37:09

Season 20

82

11

14

25

0

0

1

5

10

121

9.1

0.0

18:44:32

Season 21

80

11

10

21

0

1

1

-6

6

78

14.1

50.0

18:16:08

Season 22

82

9

21

30

0

0

1

14

4

74

12.2

100.0

18:24:32

Current Season

82

18

20

38

0

0

2

43

0

88

20.5

50.0

18:27:26

515

70

100

170

0

1

7

85

38

596

11.6

36.1

118:39:29

Playoff Statistics

GP

GLS

AST

PTS

PPG

SHG

GWG

+/-

PIM

S

S%

FW%

TOI

Season 16

6

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

2

6

0.0

0.0

1:21:04

Season 17

19

2

1

3

0

0

1

-3

2

23

8.7

0.0

4:34:06

Season 20

10

1

1

2

0

0

0

0

0

8

12.5

0.0

2:29:45

Season 21

18

2

2

4

0

0

0

1

0

14

14.3

0.0

4:21:23

Season 22

5

0

0

0

0

0

0

-2

0

0

-

56.3

1:11:19

Current Season

18

3

6

9

0

0

0

6

0

11

27.3

50.0

4:17:23

76

8

10

18

0

0

1

2

4

62

12.9

56.0

18:15:00

Another in a seemingly-endless rotation of quality checking fowards, Patin arrived in Yorba Linda with a skillset designed to make him a front-line player. He was never fully able to realize that potential, but after a few seasons in the minors adapted well to the franchise's defensive and cycling game. Never flashy or unique, the Quebec-born Patin simply came to work every day and did the little things that have allowed the team to succeed year after year. He wore #56 for the Yowlers, never changed from his "scrub" days when it was assigned to him as a temporary training-camp number. He returns to his native Quebec to play in the NAHL.

G Tim Armstrong

Regular Season Statistics

GP

W

L

T

GA

GAA

SO

SA

S

S%

TOI

Season 13

39

19

13

5

70

1.85

2

1094

1024

93.60

37:49:56

Season 14

42

17

19

6

92

2.22

3

1148

1056

91.99

41:23:26

Season 15

16

3

5

3

31

2.34

1

404

373

92.33

13:15:03

Season 16

63

32

21

7

158

2.56

3

1070

912

85.23

61:49:35

Season 19

75

57

13

4

119

1.63

13

1063

944

88.81

72:56:08

Season 20

23

16

3

2

46

2.09

2

371

325

87.60

22:02:24

Current Season

76

52

16

8

159

2.10

9

992

833

83.97

75:47:10

334

196

90

35

675

2.08

33

6142

5467

89.0

325:03:42

Playoff Statistics

GP

W

L

T

GA

GAA

SO

SA

S

S%

TOI

Season 13

1

0

1

0

5

5.00

0

32

27

84.38

1:00:00

Season 14

5

3

2

0

11

1.96

0

167

156

93.41

5:37:02

Season 16

3

1

2

0

9

3.00

0

39

30

76.92

3:00:00

Season 19

5

1

3

0

7

1.74

1

60

53

88.33

4:00:55

Season 20

3

0

2

0

8

4.06

0

31

23

74.19

1:58:16

Current Season

4

1

3

0

13

3.72

0

52

39

75.00

3:29:37

21

6

13

0

53

2.78

1

381

328

86.1

19:05:50

Of all the players retiring this year, with their many quirks and career curves, nobody is more of an enigma that Yowlers 'tender Armstrong. An absolutely dominant netminder during the regular season, Armstrong retires second on the team's all-time list for wins by a wide stretch. He holds the two best single-season win marks, with seasons of 50 and 57 victories. His 33 shutouts and remarkable 2.08 GAA (largely set in the new "longpuck" era from seasons 16+) are remarkable accomplishments as well. In fact, his 196 career victories represent the MLD record for most wins by a non-FP goalie in the 250 GP retirement era. The mystery, however, came year after year, as Armstrong would begin his inexplicable and inevitable self-annihilation during the playoffs. He won a total of 6 games during his playoff career - with no series wins. Year after year Yowler fans and teammates were frustrated by his lack of poise and confidence the moment the post-season began. It is possibly for this reason he won no team awards in Yorba Linda, despite winning the Vezina trophy in season 19. He wore #31 for the Yowlers. As a side note, his unique nickname "Polly" came from his junior days and his unusal habit of referring to the puck as a "cracker". Since he always wanted to eat up the cracker... his teammates found him a suitable nickname.